When you're budgeting for a kitchen remodel there is bound to be certain aspects that are not negotiable. Maybe you have always wanted an island or are standing firm for a new wall oven. Whatever the features or fixtures are, there will be specific parts of your design that you cannot live without. Fortunately, there are also many things that can be altered, shifted, tweaked and fine tuned to help your renovation fit into the budget.
Out of all the elements within a kitchen remodeling project, there are certain ones that carry the heaviest weight cost-wise. They will have the largest effect on the budget and tend to be the ones that people turn to when the squeeze is on to save money. Some are adjustable - some are not. It depends entirely on your preferences, the current state of your kitchen and the desired outcome.
Cabinetry Cash Cow
One of the largest single portions in a kitchen renovation cost is new cabinets. Depending on whether you opt for factory-made cabinetry or invest in something custom made, this element of the project can cost anywhere from $5000 to over $20,000. That is a wide price range, but the factors that affect the overall cost of cabinets are just as broad.
The amount of cabinets in your new kitchen will obviously make a difference. But most people are renovating their kitchen to provide more storage space so cutting out the cabinets doesn't seem like a good idea.
On the other hand, changing the door style of top grade cabinetry can make a major difference to the cost. Clear or frosted glass doors are pricey, while flat or low-profiled doors are on the lower end of the scale. Other elements often built into the cabinets (like wine racks, lazy susans and trim) can really push up the overall cost. And the actual material used will also make a difference. For wood cabinets, try opting for a cheaper wood and staining it to resemble something more upscale like cherry or mahogany.
Flooring Follies
Because of the sheer size of most kitchens the flooring can quickly become a large part of the cost. You need to choose something that is durable and tough, because the abuse you kitchen flooring takes is considerable.
Try discussing your options with a flooring specialist to see whether something cheaper will be do the trick. Ceramic tiles, for instance, are much cheaper than other natural stone tiles like slate. If it's the rough look that you want consider the patterns and products out there that will mimic nature at a much more reasonable cost. Simply be sure that the flooring is easy to clean, durable and available in a neutral color that will hide dirt well. With those specifications in mind you should be able find kitchen flooring to fit your budget.
There are plenty of elements with a kitchen remodel and only a few of them contribute to the majority of the cost. Cabinets and flooring are the two major culprits; although the cost of appliances, plumbing work and light fixtures all help to increase the total investment in your kitchen remodel. Be creative and only make the alterations that you are willing to live with. Let your new dream kitchen be a smart fusion of your desires and cost saving decisions.
Posted by: dianaSuggested Reading For You
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